DISASTER & MILITARY SERVICES

The American Red Cross is disaster-related organization; part of our mission is to prepare for and respond to emergencies. Many disaster volunteer opportunities evolve around disaster education and response. There is also an opportunity to work with military personnel.

Disaster Community Education

Present disaster educational programs to local schools, senior centers and community centers. Volunteer Schedule: Dates and times vary Hours Required: Minimum of 45 minutes per program Minimum Age: 15

Community Caseworkers - Capital Region Office Only

Office assistance. Answer requests from area residents who need help purchasing food or paying energy bills. Volunteer Schedule: Tuesdays & Fridays, 9 a.m. - 12 noon Hours Required: At least twice a month Minimum Age: 18

Disaster Action Team Members

Disasters do not make appointments, so the American Red Cross always needs trained volunteers who are able to assist when a disaster strikes. All locations coordinate a team of volunteers known as Disaster Action Team (DAT) members. Teams are trained and prepared to respond in the event of fires, flooding, tornadoes and other types of disasters. After obtaining local experience, a DAT volunteer can become a Disaster Services Human Resources (DSHR) member, which provides the volunteer with the opportunity to participate in 3-week long national assignments. Training is free. Volunteer Schedule: As needed; whenever disasters strike Hours Required: Varies; dependent on disaster Minimum Age: 21

Disaster Mental Health/Disaster Health Service Worker

Are you a licensed mental health worker or health care professional? Disaster Mental Health workers are needed to provide emotional support to the victims of a disaster. Disaster Health Service workers are needed to provide physical health support when a disaster strikes. Volunteer Schedule: As needed; whenever disasters strike Hours Required: Varies; dependent on disaster Minimum Age: 21

Disaster Preparedness Assistant

Survey shelter sites, obtain agreements with merchants and maintain preparedness resources. Volunteer Schedule: As needed Hours Required: Varies Minimum Age: 18

Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS)

Volunteers can assist recruits and enlistees in their entrance to military life! A volunteer at the Mechanicsburg or New Cumberland Military Entrance Processing Station would provide an overview of American Red Cross casework services available for military personnel and their family members. On site training is provided. Volunteer Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 11 a.m. Hours Required: 1 - 2 shifts per month Minimum Age: 18

If you have any questions, contact our volunteer specialists by calling 234-3101 or 299-5561, or via e-mail.